In: Nursing
2- How does the decision to withhold or withdraw artificial nutrition and hydration relate to nonmaleficence?
the concept of artificial nutrition and hydration is required in case of geriatric patient toi fulfill the nutritional as wellas physiological requirements of the body.As there is chances of poor nutrition and less water capacity or hydration capacity in the patient as well as the skin hydration is also reduced in the geriatric patients.
In certain cases the patient is unable to feed then these are the best alternatives.It is a major ethical issue in withhold or withdraw such artificial nutrition and hydartion now a days.
But this ias very required decision after some time in treatment when there is nonmaleficence or due to high cost or the family of the patient refuses it. Sometime it is accomplished when the patient get respond well and able to intake food itself
But it is very controversial decision as it may lead to serious ill effects on the patient.
Hence to withhold or withdraw artificial nutrition should be after proper nursing planning as well as in consultation with physician.